Bill > A04828

This bill improves transportation services for children with special needs by establishing several key requirements for school districts. The bill mandates that school districts provide free transportation for children with special needs between home and school, and must assign a special needs liaison to work directly with each child and their family to ensure transportation needs are met. The transportation time is limited to a maximum of one and a half hours, with flexible wait times to accommodate children who may need extra assistance getting on and off buses. If transportation cannot be completed within this timeframe, the school district must either add more transportation routes or fully reimburse the child's caretaker for all transportation expenses. Additionally, the bill requires that buses used for transporting children with special needs be equipped with cameras and tracking systems so families can monitor bus arrival times. The definition of "children with special needs" is broadly defined to include, but not be limited to, minors with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The bill will take effect on the first of July following its passage into law, aiming to immediately improve transportation services for this vulnerable student population.

Education

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4828